Agriculture Minister Bill Byrne has announced the Palaszczuk Government doubles its cash contribution to the Beef Australia expo in Rockhampton taking total government support for the event to at least $1 Million.

“As the Member for Rockhampton I am very pleased that my first announcement on my return as Agriculture Minister is that the Palaszczuk Government will provide $500,000 in funding to Beef Australia 2018.” Minister Byrne said.

“It is something I have lobbied for and I know it will be welcomed enthusiastically in the Beef Capital and the cattle industry.”

“The increased financial support for Beef Week in Rockhampton in 2018 will be in addition to substantial in-kind support and the vital contribution to the success of the expo made by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.”

“That in-kind support will at least match the $524,000 provided in 2015 from a range of government agencies.” Minister Byrne said.

“It will include awareness promotion, a comprehensive program of DAF seminars and property tours, event biosecurity and assistance and advice for exporters as well as profiling of the latest technological advances and improvements arising from research and development undertaken by the department.”

“The Palaszczuk Government will waste no opportunity to promote Queensland’s beef exports and the cutting-edge science and innovation that makes our beef so prized overseas.”

“The additional funding will assist the organisers to ensure that Beef Australia 2018 goes from strength to strength and will once again provide a vital economic boost to Rocky.” Minister Byrne said.

“The 2015 Expo brought 90,000 people to the city from all over Australia and the rest of the world, including 1,100 registered international visitors from over 40 countries.”

“The benefits to Rockhampton simply can’t be overstated. An independent assessment of the 2015 event concluded $74 Million was spent in the region as a direct result of the Expo.” Minister Byrne said.

The increased funding has been welcomed by Blair Angus, chairman of Beef Australia.

“This is a great commitment from the Palaszczuk Government and I would like to thank Minister Byrne for his continuing support.” Mr. Angus said.

“We are delighted that the government has doubled its financial contribution to what will be our 11th expo in our 30th year.”

“It is especially welcome 18 months or so ahead of the event as it gives us some certainty as we make preparations for what is certainly the most important event of its kind in Australia.” Mr. Angus said.